Contrasts of Crete Walking
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Crete. This multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Starting in the charming city of Chania, you'll traverse the majestic White Mountains, explore ancient ruins, and relax on pristine beaches. The tour includes a walk through Europe's longest gorge, a visit to the ancient city of Lissos, and a leisurely hike to the entrance of Aradena gorge. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to swim, picnic, and soak in the stunning views. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a seasoned adventurer, this tour has something for everyone.
Included
Alternative transfersIf you require alternative transfers (because you will be arriving at a different time to our standard flights), then we can usually arrange these for you (there may be an additional charge).
Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
Route directions and maps
Luggage transfers between hotels
Simple buffet style Greek breakfast consists of bread/toast, butter, jam, fresh juice, milk, local yoghurt, eggs and honey, and coffee/tea. For lunch we recommend taking a picnic on most days although there may be options on some days to eat at a taverna. For dinner, in each place you stay there will be a range of different local tavernas and restaurants to choose from where you can sample some typical Greek meze dishes, olives, fresh fish, vegetables and much more.
The hotels you'll be staying in are small, family-run properties some of which are close to the sea shore.
Destinations
ChaniaMap
Attractions
Παραλία Φραγκοκαστελο
Προστατευόμενο Δάσος Λευκών Ορέων
Cave of Agia Sofia
Iguana BeachDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Chania
- Chania - Arrival day
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Welcome to the beautiful city of Chania, your starting point for this adventure. With the stunning White Mountains as a backdrop, Chania's lively harbour, bustling market, and historical remains will captivate you. Our local representative will meet you in the afternoon for a briefing.
Day 2 – Day 2: Chania to Sougia via White Mountains and Agia Irini Gorge
- Chania
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- Προστατευόμενο Δάσος Λευκών Ορέων
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Today, we'll transfer you to the White Mountains for a scenic walk through the Agia Irini Gorge. The gorge's humidity and shade support a variety of plants, and gigantic plane trees grace a large clearing halfway up. After the walk, a short transfer will take you to Sougia bay on the Lybian coast.
Day 3 – Day 3: Sougia to Agia Roumeli via Ancient City of Lissos
Day 3: Sougia to Agia Roumeli via Ancient City of Lissos
From Sougia, we'll walk towards the ancient city of Lissos. The path follows a beautiful small canyon with narrow yet high walls, leading to the Temple of Asclepius. Explore the scattered ruins of the ancient city, including tombs, the Roman theatre, and the church of Saint Kirikos. After returning to Sougia, you'll have time to relax at the beach before taking a boat transfer to the fishing village of Agia Roumeli, where you'll spend the next two nights.
Day 4 – Day 4: Exploration of Samaria Gorge
Day 4: Exploration of Samaria Gorge
Today, we'll walk from Agia Roumeli up part of the Samaria Gorge, Europe's longest gorge. Keep an eye out for lammergeyers as you cross trickling streams and pass through forests of scented pines. The highlight of the day is the 'Iron Gates', the narrowest point of the gorge where the rocks on either side are 600m high. We'll then head back down the gorge to return to Agia Roumeli.
Day 5 – Day 5: Agia Roumeli to Loutro via Chapel of St Pavlos and Marmara Beach
Day 5: Agia Roumeli to Loutro via Chapel of St Pavlos and Marmara Beach
- Cave of Agia Sofia
- Iguana Beach
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Enjoy a wonderful coastal walk today to the picturesque 13th-century chapel of St Pavlos, where the apostle supposedly first arrived in Crete. Stop for a swim before heading on to Marmara, where you can enjoy lunch in a taverna and stop for another swim. Continue along the coastal path to Loutro or take a water taxi from Marmara (payable locally). A shorter walking option is also available.
Day 6 – Day 6: Free Day in Loutro or Optional Hike to Aradena Gorge
Day 6: Free Day in Loutro or Optional Hike to Aradena Gorge
Spend the day relaxing in Loutro or take a leisurely hike via Foinikas to Marmara beach to the entrance of Aradena gorge. Return the same way or take a water taxi back to Loutro (payable locally).
Day 7 – Day 7: Loutro to Chania via Freshwater Beach
- Chania
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- Παραλία Φραγκοκαστελο
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Follow the coastal path to Freshwater beach, so-called because of the fresh spring water that bubbles just under the surface. Enjoy a swim and a picnic before continuing on to Hora Sfakion where a transfer takes you back to Chania for your last night.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Chania
- Chania - Departure day
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The tour ends after breakfast in Chania. We hope you enjoyed your journey and look forward to welcoming you back on another adventure soon.
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